MODULE SUPPLEMENT: NEUROLOGICAL SYSTEM
Other Consequences of Diminished B-adrenergic
Receptor Responsiveness

In addition to decreased maximum heart rate potential, the decline in beta adrenergic receptor responsivity may also cause a shift toward a more vasoconstricted state because beta adrenergic stimulation facilitates vascular relaxation. This may be offset somewhat by a concurrent decline in alpha-adrenergic receptor sensitivity (Jones, Shapiro, et al., 2001).

There is also some data that suggest that the decrease in beta adrenergic receptor responsivity may influence resting metabolic rate. Bell and colleagues (2001) suggest that the sympathetic nervous system contributes to the control of resting metabolic rate through tonic beta adrenergic receptor stimulation. In a small study (n=55) they showed that this was attenuated with age, in women more than men, and as a result of a sedentary life style.